Highest Water in a Decade Expected at Lake Powell

Above-average snowpack opens new areas of lake to houseboaters

Published online: Jul 05, 2011News

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Summer visitors to Lake Powell will experience water levels last seen 10 years ago, according to anew report by the Bureau of Reclamation. The report predicts water levels to be 3,665 feet above sea level by mid-August, a level not seen since 2001.In the last two months, the nation's second largest man-made lake has added 28 feet of water elevation with half of the snowpack still left to melt. This excess snowmelt is creating more areas to explore at Lake Powell, America's favorite houseboating destination.

"We are expecting the lake to rise a foot a day for the next two months as the rest of the snow melts and feeds Lake Powell," says David Sloma, vice president of operations for Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas, "The higher water levels are opening hundreds of Lake Powell's back canyons to boats, giving visitors access to areas that have not been accessible for ten years!"

Visitors to LakePowell this year will find more places to explore and to beach houseboats. The lake's high levels will provide optimal boating conditions throughout the season.Popular fishing areas such as Farley and CooperCanyons are also expected to be accessible.

LakePowell's rising water level is a result of the long and wet winter this year. An above-average snowpack, with late snows and unseasonably cold weather has lead to a slower melt than usual. As of May, the snowpack that feeds LakePowell was 30 percent higher than average, with only 50 percent of the accumulated snowpack melted.

It's not too late for those wanting to take advantage of the current conditions at LakePowell to book hotel rooms, houseboats, campsites or water toys. Those interested in visiting the lake can learn more and book their LakePowell vacation atwww.lakepowell.com or by calling (888) 486-4665.